The Isuzu mu-X is one of those SUVs that often flies under the radar in South Africa’s saturated SUV market. Despite its exceptional capabilities, it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. But after spending some time with the mu-X, I’ve come to appreciate just how refined, comfortable and versatile it truly is. It should be high on the list for those shopping for a spacious, powerful, and reliable SUV that can tackle both urban roads and rugged terrain.
First Impressions
The first time I laid eyes on the Isuzu mu-X, I was struck by its sleek and refined design. While it is easy to just get lost in the sea of SUV’s that dominate our roads, it certainly stands out in its own charming way. It doesn’t aim to win any beauty contests, but it has a certain elegance and ruggedness about it that makes it stand out. The blue exterior paint of the test unit I had, in particular, gave the mu-X a longer, more streamlined appearance, adding a premium vibe. From the grille to the sharp body lines, the design reflects the sophistication you’d expect from a high-end SUV. The mu-X has been designed with an eye for detail and its attractive exterior is only the beginning.
Performance
On the road, the Isuzu mu-X shines. I spent most of my time driving between Krugersdorp, Pretoria, and Johannesburg, and I was impressed with how it handled the highway. It’s quick off the starting line and has enough power to keep up with traffic without feeling sluggish. Whether merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles, it delivers a smooth, confident performance with minimal effort.
The engine is more than capable, offering a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. I found that the mu-X had a “get up and go” attitude, especially when I needed it on longer trips. The ride quality is another highlight; the suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road, which is particularly beneficial when driving on less-than-ideal road surfaces and even bumpy back roads, it didn’t break a sweat, delivering a smooth and stable ride. One of the standout features is its high ground clearance, which made navigating some rough patches in the rural part of the south of Johannesburg a breeze. The mu-X just ploughed through with no issues, making me confident it could handle any road conditions, whether inthe city or out in the wild.
Interior
The interior of the Isuzu mu-X is just as impressive as its exterior and performance. There’s an immediate sense of roominess, and the seven seats are a huge plus for families. My teenagers, were more than happy to disappear into the back row of seats, which used to be their favourite hiding spot in the car when they were toddlers. The spacious cabin also contributes to the overall comfort, making long trips feel much more relaxed.
I particularly appreciated how simple it was to pair my antique Android phone with the car’s infotainment system. As someone who isn’t exactly tech-savvy, I was impressed by the ease of connection. The speakers deliver clear, crisp sound, making every drive a pleasure, whether I’m listening to music or making hands-free calls. The controls are intuitive, and the dashboard layout is well thought out, giving the driver all the necessary information without overwhelming them. The high ride gives you a commanding view of the road ahead, making it easier to navigate busy
city streets. And when it comes to city driving, the suspension is firm enough to offer stability while still absorbing any small bumps or imperfections.
The Verdict
Overall, the Isuzu mu-X is a solid, dependable vehicle that would make an excellent companion for both city and off-road adventures. Its refined design, powerful performance, and spacious interior combine to create a vehicle that is as luxurious as it is practical. It didn’t feel heavy, and I was pleasantly surprised by its fuel efficiency. Despite numerous city drives between Johannesburg and Pretoria, I still had half a tank of fuel when I returned the vehicle.
However, there were a couple of things that were a bit annoying. The parking sensors were overly sensitive, providing constant warnings when reversing in tight spaces. While this is likely a safety feature, it got tiresome. But I suppose it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s certainly earned a spot on my list for future road trips. I would absolutely take the Isuzu mu-X on a longer road trip, like to the Eastern Cape for the festive season. I could easily imagine driving through the rolling hills of Transkei, and visiting relatives in remote villages where roads aren’t always in the best condition. With its great ground clearance and strong build, the mu-X would make light work of even the roughest terrain, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
Price: R736 900 – R970 300
